His brace away to Stoke last night (no, I’m not gong to use THAT phrase) was the latest reminder of the Spanish magician’s class and poise.

Earlier this season he proved himself to be the best player on the pitch in the Manchester derby.

As he drifted in between the lines, his head on a pivot so he’s always aware of Raheem Sterling, Leroy Sane and Kevin De Bruyne’s exact locations, he sapped the energy out of United’s players and maintained control in a fixture that could have opened up.

In an age and league where physicality and athleticism is becoming more and more important by the day, Silva reminds us that technique and understanding are not only enough to prosper, they’re enough to carve out a legacy.

The term ‘football IQ’ has always made me cringe but if it’s appropriate for any player, then Silva is that player.

He seems to understand football on a deeper level to most, sensitive to the flow of the game’s tide, aware of the subtle adjustments needed for each situation.

As with any artist, the joy is in the details.

If Silva wants Sane to take on the full-back he will pass the ball to him in a way that encourages such an attack.

If he wants the ball back off Sane to exploit the space created elsewhere by dragging the game wide, then he passes it with that intention.

The differences between the two passes are almost undetectable, a subtle change in pace, which foot it’s aimed at, Silva’s first movement after playing the ball — this is how you properly dictate a game, by making your team-mates’ decision for them when possible.

Spain have had a wealth of midfield talent for the last decade — you can add Cesc Fabregas, Santi Cazorla, Juan Mata, Sergio Busquets, Xabi Alonso, Koke, Thiago Alcantara and Isco to the aforementioned Barcelona maestros just for starters.

Despite all that competition, Silva has played 118 games for his country, putting him sixth on their all-time most-capped list.

He’s scored 35 goals as well — only Fernando Torres, Raul and David Villa have scored more for Spain.

It’s no coincidence that Silva has figured for both Spain and City during their respective golden eras.

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